What is Coast Capital THRIVE?
THRIVE: Transforming Hiring Relationships; Inspiring Vocational Experiences
Coast Capital THRIVE is an innovative program for young adults aged 19-29 with disabilities who are involved in post-secondary school or have recently graduated. The program offers one-to-one coaching, mentorship, advocacy, and direct connections to employers. Our vocational consultants help participants create employability foot holds while gaining confidence, tools, experience, and the ‘how to’ towards reaching vocational goals.
This approach recognizes that the current system does not always provide suitable opportunities between employers and post-secondary graduates with disabilities. Our aim is to support participants in building vocational and employability skills, and assist employers to harness the talent of these skilled individuals. Our services are customized to meet the unique needs of each participant and employer.
We also leverage BC Centre for Ability’s many years of experience in vocational services and partnerships with community service providers, employers, and BC post-secondary institutions.
This program is generously funded by Coast Capital.
“After graduating University, I was put in touch with the THRIVE program so I could easily find a job that suits me. After a few months of working with my consultant I was given this ‘THRIVE Career Book’ to prepare for any job interview I may have. After getting my first interview, I met with my vocational consultant and practiced interview questions a number of times, I then went through some of the exercises in the career book several times over. After doing this, I was not as nervous for my interview. I felt more confident in what I was saying, and my answers came naturally to me. Practicing these exercises resulted in me being offered the position I interviewed for.”
– Coast Capital THRIVE Participant
Features and Benefits
Features
- One-on-one career coaching and mentorship
- Short term and long term career planning
- Copies of tailored and polished resumes and cover letters
- Use of holistic career development model
- Job search support and job search skills development
- In depth interview skills and coaching
- Access Coast Capital THRIVE consultants’ employer networks
- Access to Coast Capital THRIVE’s podcast channel, newsletters, and career coaching guide
- Job retention coaching and support
- Support with career transitions, exiting positions and leveraging past employment experiences
- Initial work site visit (if requested and required)
- Informational interviews and volunteer opportunities
Benefits
- Flexible and adaptable approach to appointments in a low pressure environment
- Networking opportunities
- Meaningful job placements
- Post employment support and follow up
- Access to paid skills training
- Some participants have reported a reduction in anxiety, increased confidence and a greater sense of self
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Coast Capital THRIVE?
- Individuals who are between the ages of 19 – 29.
- Individuals who identify as having a disability.
- Individuals who have intentions to pursue, have completed, or are in the process of completing post-secondary education.
Are there any costs associated?
- No, the Coast Capital THRIVE program is a free service for participants, institutions, and employers.
How do I apply?
- You can self refer through our online form or have a support person apply on your behalf.
What is the length of the program?
- Program length is flexible depending on individual client goals.
How can I get more information about the program?
- Email THRIVE@bc-cfa.org to learn more.
“Working with THRIVE has had an immensely positive impact on my outlook for the future. If you’re on the fence about whether or not to sign up, I strongly encourage you to go ahead and take that leap. You are worth it.”
– Coast Capital THRIVE Participant
Advisory Group
DANE ISSIGONIS
After suffering from an AVM brain bleed at eleven years old, Dane Issigonis was assisted by BC Centre For Ability to get him back to the life he lived before the incident. As a young boy who loves sports, BCCFA helped tailor his rehabilitation process through his interests, which resulted in increased motivation and the ultimate success of his recovery process. With the help of BCCFA, Dane was able to get back to his ultimate goal, which was to play hockey with his peers again. Without BCCFA, Dane and his family strongly believe that his recovery would be nowhere near as successful as it has been. Dane hopes to show youth that have experienced brain injuries that their goals and dreams are not as far out of reach as they might think. Anything is possible with the right attitude.
MURSAL CHAHAL
Mursal was connected to BC Centre for Ability at the age of 15 years post acquiring chronic brain injury. In a short period of time, the support she received from the program changed her life 360 degrees. Her most fond memories with the Centre are having her social worker assess her needs, advocating for the services that she required, and ensuring all those services were in place. The support system set in place not only helped Mursal progress with her journey to recovery, but also impacted her growth and view on what holistic support system should be. Today, she is inspired to be part of the Coast Capital THRIVE program as an advisor because she shares the same vision as the organization; which is to empower individuals to thrive and excel at all stages of life.
“If it wasn’t for the support that I received during that time, I would have struggled immensely with transitioning from my teen years to adulthood” – Mursal
NATHAN CLEMENT
Having a stroke at the age of two and a half, Nathan Clement joined BC Centre For Ability’s Brain Injury Program. Through his time at BCCFA, Clement gained skills that helped him regain motion in his left arm/leg and gave him the confidence to try new things. That belief propelled Clement to training on the Canadian Cerebral Palsy Soccer Team’s Development Squad before switching to swimming. He would captain Canada in the Rio 2016 Paralympics, placing 7th in the world in the 50-metre butterfly. Recently completing a Bike ride across BC, Clement has now transitioned to aiming to compete on the Canadian National Para-Cycling Team. Currently studying at BCIT with the ambitions to tell the stories of athletes and people with disabilities, Clement aims to help share and support the upcoming generations to reach their dreams and goals. That belief has inspired Clement to join the Coast Capital THRIVE Program, where he looks to help youth push beyond their comfort zones and achieve their pursuits.
Contact Information
General Enquiries
Coast Capital THRIVE Program
BC Centre for Ability
2805 Kingsway, Vancouver V5R 5H9
Tel: (604) 451-5511
Fax: (604) 630-3041
Email: thrive@bc-cfa.org
